‘The Plot Against America’ Series Premiere ‘Part 1’ Review: A Jewish Family

Following the likes of shows such as Chernobyl, The Plot Against America takes a step back in history; albeit in an alternate sense. The show is based on Philip Roth’s novel of the same name. Here, it presents a what-if scenario where American Icon Charles Lindbergh rises to the presidency. Through the eyes of a Jewish Family from New Jersey, the show presents a chilling portrayal of Fascist America.

On Monday’s episode of The Plot Against America, Herman Levin (Morgan Spector) and Elizabeth Levin (Zoe Kazan) tries to raise their Jewish family amid a passively hostile environment. As they watch their parents react to the news, Sandy Levin (Caleb Malis) and Phillip Levin (Azhy Robertson) try to make sense of what is happening. Amid the changing atmosphere, Evelyn Finkel (Winona Ryder) tries to find love. Elsewhere, Alvin Levin (Anthony Boyle) expresses his anger towards local Fascists.

Head of The Family

Michele K. Short/HBO

Herman is your average American working-class man. He has a typical office job, enjoys baseball, and spends time with his family as much as he can. What sets him and his community apart is that they are a Jewish neighborhood. If one takes a look at him, he looks like the usual 1940s American Man. However, their society does not see it that way. Once he steps out of the comforts of home, he finds that a significant number of Americans are anti-semite. The man could do nothing but express his frustrations to his neighbors as all they here are Lindbergh’s racist remarks. The situation is at a point where Herman decided to turn down a promotion since it meant moving to an area where Fascists thrive.

Protective Mother

Michele K. Short/HBO

Although she is not as politically vocal as her husband, Elizabeth is just as against Lindbergh as Herman. Elizabeth comes from a town where People despise Jews. Sure, they did not physically harm her, but she grew up in isolation. At some point in the episode, Elizabeth mentions her lonely childhood, growing up without friends and under public scrutiny. With that said, her disdain towards Herman accepting the promotion is understandable. At least in their current neighborhood, she and her family openly practice their religion without fear. However, this sense of safety may not last long; not with the threat of Lindbergh’s possible run for office.

Looking for Love

Michele K. Short/HBO

Elizabeth’s sister, Evelyn, tries to find love despite imminent Jewish persecution. What makes matters worse is that Evelyn goes after a married man, foolish enough to hope that he would leave his family for her. Evelyn seems like the type of person who makes poor relationship decisions. Just as quickly as she comes home to Elizabeth to rant about her failed affair, she finds her next target. When she meets Rabbi Lionel Bengelsdorf (John Turturro) at an event in her workplace, a school, one easily senses her interest for the man. As seen in the next episode preview, Rabbi Lionel is a Lindbergh collaborator, meaning nothing but bad news for the Levins.

In-between

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Perhaps the most unfortunate victims of the upcoming onslaught are the Levin children. Phillip and Sandy are too young to grasp the full concept of what goes on around them. While Phillip takes on a journey of self-discovery, Sandy is at the early stages of adolescence. Likely, Sandy considers his older cousin, Alvin, a role model. Alvin, however, is not exactly a young man with a clean slate. Alvin and his friends prefer to take the fight to the fascists instead. Besides Alvin, Sandy looks up to Lindbergh, too, fixated on his image as a hero pilot. If left unchecked, these kids may go down a dangerous path– other than the already present anti-Jewish sentiments.

‘The Plot Against America’ Series Premiere ‘Part 1’ Final Verdict

The Plot Against America perfectly captures the 1940s America vibe. From world-building to costumes, the show does an amazing job of bringing the viewers to the said era. Also, it maintains a dreadful vibe throughout the episode. Half the time of watching, one cannot help but expect any of the characters to get into trouble. The environment around them looks and feels unsafe, giving viewers an intense, unsettling feeling even as the episode ended. With the introductory episode finished, one can expect nothing less than the anxiety this chapter gave its main characters.

The Plot Against America continues Monday, March 23rd with ‘Part 2’ at 9/8c on HBO.